1974 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 406 kg more than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Valiant | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Valiant | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2890 mm |
